HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 26, 2007OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2007
The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday,
February 26, 2007 in the City Council. Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/INVOCATION
Rev. Ken Ribe, Church of All Nations, gave the Invocation. Peterson asked that he thank all the clergy
that participate in City Council meeting invocations.
Present: Mayor Peterson, Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Nawrocki, Councilmember Diehm,
Councilmember Kelzenberg
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE -recited
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA
Nawrocki requested to discuss special legislation to extend the Central Avenue TIF district and discuss
the Activity Center. Peterson placed them under item 7C2.
Peterson added a Proclamation for MN Food Share Month.
PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS
Proclamation -Minnesota Food Share Month
Mayor Peterson read the proclamation and presented it to Rick Johnson of SACA, our local food shelf.
Johnson stated that SACA began the Empty Bowls fundraiser about five years ago to supplement the
decrease in federal, state and city donations. He indicated that the number of food shelf recipients is up
45 percent. The Empty Bowls dinner is a community event sponsored by local civic organizations,
churches and businesses that will beheld on March 5, 2007 from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Murzyn Hall. A
free will offering will be accepted. Johnson stated that children snake the bowls that are given away,
along with pottery businesses and other groups.
Diehin stated that this year the Empty Bowls fundraiser is at Murzyn Hall, rather than in Fridley as in
prior years. She stated that participants receive a bowl to take home. Nawrocki stated that everyone gets
a bowl to remind them that there are people going hungry. Johnson referred to his handout, the 2007
Hunger Fact Sheet. He stated that all food shelves in Minnesota are hurting. Peterson asked him to thank
SAGA for the work they do.
CONSENT AGENDA
Walt Fehst, City Manager, took Councilmembers through the Consent Agenda.
1) Approve City Council Meetin~Minutes for Februar~l 2 2007 regular City Council meeting
Motion to approve the minutes of the February 12, 2007 regular City Council. meeting as
presented.
2) Acct Boards and Commissions Nleetin~ Minutes
Accept: Minutes of the Teleco~nrnunications Commission meeting of February 15, 2007.
3} Approve cancellation of March 5, 2007 work session
Motion to cancel the March 5, 2047 work. session, as there would not be a quorum present.
4} Authorize County_expenses
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February 26, ?007
Page 2 of I 1
Motion to authorize payment of $20,413.92 to Anoka County for administering the 2006 Tax
Increment Financing Laws of Minnesota, Truth in Taxation, and Special Assessments, with
expenses being charged to the TIF Debt Services Fund and the General Fund.
5) Approve Contract with ProSource for the completion of supplemental investigation and
environmental clean up in Phase III of the Industrial Park
Nawrocki asked if we received any other proposals, as this is a new contract. Randy
Schumacher, Community Development Project Manager, stated this is a three phase project
begun. in 2004. ProSource has done the soil borings, put together a Response Action Plan and
organized clean up based on a phased plan. They have done an excellent job, have done all the
studies and know the project. To change companies at this point would be very costly. The costs
are covered by DEED and grant dollars. Schumacher stated that some work is sent to labs and
the study is done by ProSource. Nawrocki indicated the importance of bidding and comparing
bids, and getting the most for the taxpayer's dollars. Nawrocki questioned their fee for Phase I
and II. Schumacher stated the contract was about 14 percent, which is normally about 23 percent.
Nawrocki stated that the liquor store contract was five percent.
Motion to approve the contract with ProSource Technologies Inc. for the completion of
supplemental investigation and envirommental clean up in Phase III of the Industrial Park.
Funding will come from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
as outlined in the grant; and furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into
an agreement for the same.
6) Approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for February 26, 2007
Motion to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for February 26, 2007.
7) Approve reissue of rental housing license for 4341 Tyler Place as it complies with City Code
Motion to issue arental-housing license to Bo Phalgoo to operate the rental property located at
4341 Tyler Place N.E. in that the provisions of the residential maintenance code have been
complied with.
8) Approve Business License Applications
Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for February 26, 2007 as
presented.
9) Approve Payment of Bills
Motion to approve payment of the bills out of the proper funds as listed in the attached check
register covering Check Number 120478 through 12061.7 in the amount of $777,568.99.
Nawrocki referred to check #102480 Bolter & Mink for engineering work at a cost of $90,000,
indicating it is not cost effective to hire out these services. Fehst stated they were hired far the
Parkway work, which was payable from the project.
Motion by Diehm, second by Williams, to approve the Consent Agenda items. Upon vote: All ayes.
Motion carried.
'f? a d.a .5 <.l.., e.a l-. ,,.. , `'4 f 2~ ~l t}°~a-ts/ r~vnr~ a~Y f=rant.~i in the la~^vt fi dIP
re~iist S~arcu Huai we slave Been SitCC~ssfLii an ~.v ~ ra ~~ J ~.~u~
years far aver $5,000,000 dollars. This is tax dollars from ather than our community. Fehst
recognized our staff for a jab well done.
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February 26, 2007
Page 3 of 1 1
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Adopt Resolution No. 2007- being_a Resolution for abatement of violations at 4806 Monroe Street
Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams, to close the public hearing and to waive the reading
of Resolution No. 2007-29, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All
ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams,
Chief Gorman stated that the water pipes broke while the homeowner was out of town. This was
an itntnediate abatement. It is an occupied house.
Peterson re-opened the public hearing.
Deb Johnson, 4626 Pierce Street, questioned that there was only one abatement and asked if we
are "getting soft" on clean-ups. Gorman stated there are no licenses for renewal in January,
February, and March. Inspections begin in February and abatements would not begin until
March.
Nawrocki stated at 3841 3rd Street there is a car with expired license tabs and at 4701 University
the front door is hanging over the railing. Gorman stated that property was unsecured, so we did
go in and secure it. Nawrocki stated that at 4752 5th Street, which is for sale, there is a mess
inside, the side door is broken and hanging, and the sidewalk has not been shoveled. Gorman
stated he would check if it is vacant, in the abatement process, or has an extension until spring.
Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to close the public hearing. Upon vote: All ayes.
Motion carried.
Motion to adopt, Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Resolution No. 2007-29, a
resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights declaring the property at 4806
Monroe Street N.E. a nuisance and approving the abatement of violations from the property
pursuant to City Code section 8.206. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2007-29
Resolution of the City Council for the City of Columbia Heights declaring the property a nuisance and approving
abatement of ordinance violations pursuant to Chapter 8, Article II, of City Code, of the property owned by Chokpa
Penpa (Hereinafter "Owner of Record").
Whereas, the owner of record is the legal owner of the real property located at 4806 Monroe Street N.E., Columbia
Heights, Minnesota.
And whereas, pursuant to Columbia Heights Code, Chapter 8, Article II, Section 8.206, written notice setting forth the
causes and reasons for the proposed council action contained herein was sent via regular mail to the owner of record on
February 2, 2007.
Now, therefore, in accordance with the foregoing, and all ordinances and regulations of the City of Columbia Heights,
the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights Makes the fallowing:
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. That on January 24, 2007 the Fire Department was dispatched to 4806 Monroe Street N.E. after receiving
information that there was water flowing out of the house. The Fire Department found that a water condition existed at
the property and called for a locksmith to assist in making entry. Entry was made by the firefighters to assess the health
and safety of any possible occupants. Once entry was made, personnel fumed the water aff to avoid any amore water
damage due to the water condition. Firefighters on the scene restarted the furnace to prevent any more pipes from
freezing.
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February 26, 2007
Page 4 of I 1
2. That on January 24, 2007 the Fire Department met the Public Works Department at the property to shut off the
water, after which the property was re-secured.
3. That on February 2, 2007 notices were sent to the owner via regular and certified mail at the address listed on file.
4. That based upon said records of the Fire Department, the following conditions and violations of City Codes(s) were
found to exist and have been abated, to wit: Shut water off and start heat/furnace to prevent any damage to the building
due to cold weather.
5. That all parties, including the owner of record and any occupants or tenants, have been given the appropriate notice of
this hearing according to the provisions of the City Code Section 8.206(A) and 8.206(B).
CONCLUSIONS OF COUNCIL
1. That the property located at 4806 Monroe Street N.E. is in violation of the provisions of the Columbia Heights City
Code as set forth in the Notice of Abatement.
2. That all relevant parties and parties in interest have been duly served notice of this hearing, and any other hearuigs
relevant to the abatement of violations on the property listed above.
3. That all applicable rights and periods of appeal as relating to the owner of record, occupant, or tenant, as the case
may be, have expired, or such rights have been exercised and completed.
ORDER OF COUNCIL
1. The property located at 4806 Monroe Street N.E. constitutes a nuisance pursuant to City Code.
2. That a copy of this order shall be served upon all relevant parties and parties in interest.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
C. Other Business -
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2007-30 accepting Feasibility Report for Zone 2 and 3 Street
Rehabilitation, and call for Public Improvement Hearing March 19, 2007 at 6:15 p.in.
Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Diehm, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2007-30, there
being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Diehtn, to adopt Resolution No. 2007-30, which accepts the
Feasibility Report for Zone 2 and 3 Street Rehabilitation, City Project No. 0702 and calling for
the Public Improvement Hearing beginning at 6:15 p.m. on March 19, 2007.
Nawrocki questioned how we determine the reconstruction needs of a street. Kathy Young,
Assistant City Engineer, described full street reconstruction, partial street reconstruction, and
mill and overlay road repairs. Braun Intertec electronically checked the street needs in 1996 and
1997 and our City Engineers check each street visually. Nawrocki stated the only street for full
reconstruction is Ulysses, which he has checked and did not feel this was necessary. Mill and
overlay would make the most sense. Fairway Street is relatively new. He questioned what is
wrong with the water mains in these streets. Young stated there were a significant number of
breaks. Nawrocki asked how many. Young stated 4 to 5 each in the last 20 years. Nawrocki
questioned if that justifies replacement. Young indicated that it is best to replace them during
road work to make sure it does not have to be dug up in the future.
Peterson stated this is the same process used for the last six to eight years far street testing and
the water main. replacement.
Nawrocki stated he was not convinced that all the work suggested needs to be done and
questioned the assessments rates. Young stated they were listed in the Council report. Nawrocki
questioned the estimated cost far each type of canstruction. Young stated that assessments are
per parcel as lasted in the report, j\Tau~rar~lri refPrrerl to c~trl~ assess,??Pnts incl. questioned the
difference between alleys and streets. Young stated that it changed fram per foat to per parcel in
1999. Nawrocki questioned the amount paid from city fiznds. Young stated that the estimated
cost is the entire cost, without utilities, from the infrastructure fiznd and assessments. Nawrocki
questioned if the city pays 80 percent of the cost. Young stated that the City picks up 50 percent
of the cost far full reconstruction. In partial reconstruction we pay 30 percent of the cast.
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February 26, 2007
Page 5 of 1 1
Peterson asked how Long we have had the process. Young stated since 1997. Fehst stated that
prior to 1990 residents paid 100 percent of the cast. Fehst referred to the report indicating that
the infrastructure fund is getting low, and staff will suggest going back to past practice of
recovering the engineering costs, as discussed during the last two budgets. That determination
would not be necessary until the assessment. Nawrocki stated that the philosophy for picking up
the cast was to keep engineering staff on year around and keep staff busy in the winter.
Nawrocki stated he would object to changing this as there is nothing to reduce the levy if that
money is collected.
Williams stated that tonight we are just approving the public hearing for March 19 and we hope
the public will come and get the information then. Peterson stated that this starts the cycle again,
and maybe this would be a good time to change so everyone is treated equal. Young stated that
notices need to be sent out regarding proposed assessments; the amount can be towered, but not
raised and if engineering fees are to be included it would. be appropriate to notice at the higher
rate. Peterson stated it was time to move on as that this issue had been discussed for 17 minutes.
Nawrocki objected and requested more discussion, stating that this was to be discussed at the last
work session, but was not.
Williams called for the question.
Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Diehm, aye; Peterson, aye; Nawrocki, no response.
All ayes. Motion carried.
Fehst stated that notices would be sent at the higher rate. Nawrocki strongly objected. He stated
that there was to be a meeting at 5:30 and now there is a hearing at 6:15. Fehst stated that it was
understood there would be times when more time would be required. Nawrocki stated that we
were supposed to be accommodating problems he has on third Mondays. The ink is not dry on
the approved calendar and it is already being violated.
RESOLUTION NO. 2007-30
BEING A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR ZONE 2 AND 3 STREET
REHABILITATION AND ORDERING THE PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT HEARING CITY PROJECT - NO. 0702
WHEREAS, the City Council has adopted a Street Rehabilitation Program which divides the City into seven zones,
and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 2006-174, a report has been prepared by the City Engineer with reference
to the Zone 2 and 3 area of the Street Rehabilitation Program, and
WHEREAS, Zone 2 is bounded by Reservoir Blvd to Stinson Blvd, from 37`'' Avenue to 45`'' Avenue.
WHEREAS, Zone 3 is bounded by Reservoir Blvd/Joluison Street/Central Avenue to Stinson Blvd., from 45`h
Avenue/47`h Avenue to North Corporate Limit.
WHEREAS, the report provides inforniation regarding whether the proposed project is feasible, necessary and cost
effective, and
Said report is hereby received by the City Council of Columbia Heights on February 26, 2007.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
1. The Council will consider the improvement of such streets in accordance with the report anal the assessment of
abutting or benefited property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement pursuant to Minnesota. Statutes,
Chapter 429 at an estimated total cost of the improvement of $ 1,114,070.
2. A public hearing shall be held on such proposed improvement on the 19''' day of March, 2007, in the City
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February 26, ?007
Page 6 of I 1
Council Chambers at 590 40`x' Avenue N.E. at 6:15 P.M. and the City Clerk shall give mailed and published notice
of such hearing and improvement as required by law.
Additions to the Agenda
Legislation on TIF extension
Nawrocki requested discussion on the proposal to seek legislation to collect TIF for another 25
years on the Central Avenue district. He indicated that he asked when the meeting with the
legislators was, and the Manager finally told hiin the time, but would not tell him the place. He
stated strong objection, as we are talking $650,000 of taxpayer money per year times 25 years or
about $16 million that will not be used to support city services as residents were promised when
the districts were set up. On Friday when he came in to find out the meeting location, the
Manager told him he was interfering with the business of the city and would be reporting him to
the State. Nawrocki stated he has a right to ask questions about things that affect the city's
money. If the Council wants to cut off discussion and complain because we talked about it for 16
minutes, he stated he is ashamed of this body. Nawrocki stated that as a matter of record he
expects to get the information when staff is talking to our legislators to promote that project and
wants to be part of the discussion and hear what is being told to people.
Diehim stated that it is important to have discussions about this topic and issues we are pursuing.
It is important that as a body if we choose to move forward with a request for legislation, that we
speak with an organized voice. If there is then a meeting with Legislators, she stated concern
about one councilmember versus another councilmember being there, because if we as a body
have decided it is our policy to move forward and ask for this legislation, though it may not have
been a 5 - 0 vote, the City Council Members of Columbia Heights request their Legislators bring
this legislation forward. She stated that as a council we should decide who should attend so we
don't have open meeting law issues and make sure the message is truly the message of the
Council. and not of individual members.
Fehst stated that Nawrocki has the right to meet with our elected representatives and there is
never any intent to do otherwise. The formal action of the EDA and consensus of the Council has
directed that we consider the legislation. The Community Development Director gave a
presentation. to the public at the last meeting. The Council has promised to clean up blighted
ai°eas. This legislation is similar to actions, such as one for $6,000,000, determined with only one
meeting, to extend a district for ten years for senior housing. This is what this Council is doing to
provide resources to deal with. blight in our community. This does not affect other cities in the
state. We meet with the County Board Chair, County executives, and our County Commission,
which have applauded us for solving problems with our own money. Fehst stated that he spoke
to four of the five School District Officials, and the School Finance Director, and because of the
school district formula they would not lose any money. It was stated that when this came due the
average resident would have saved an average of $20 to $29, but for that money we would buy
falling down homes and it allow us to do what Robbinsdale, New Hope, Richfield, St. Louis
Park, and Crystal. have done. This is a proper and good extension of this district and Fehst stated
pride that Council has taken this initiative.
Nawrocki stated. he has tried to get the information and history on the TIF district, without
success. The extension spoken of was when he was not on the City Council. Fehst stated that
Cot~ncilmember Nawrocki was on the EDA at that time. Nawrocki gave the history and need for
senior housing. He stated that this district extension should be put to a vote of the people, as
should the activity center. Nawrocki stated that the Council has not taken a vote on the extension
of TIF district.
City Council. Minutes
February 26, 2007
Page 7 of 11
Motion by Williams, second by Diehm, that staff pursue the extension of the TIF district and
express City Council. support.
Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Diehm, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Peterson, aye. 4ayes -
1 nay. Motion carried.
Nawrocki stated that he wanted it clear for the record to know when city staff time is going to be
spent meeting with legislators or others, and be advised that he intends to find out when and
where the meetings are going to be. Diehm asked if he intended to attend them. Nawrocki stated
that he inay well do that. Diehm stated that as a Council we can not allow that to happen,
because if two other Councilmembers want to be there it is a meeting that violates the open
meeting law.
Motion by Dielun that council directs the individual council members, through our Code of
Conduct, that they not attend the meetings that our staff have with our Legislators and that we
instead invite our legislators to a public meeting if we want to or we individually contact them.
Second by Williams.
Nawrocki asked that the motion be repeated.
Diehm stated that we directs our staff to pursue this possibility of legislation and that we, as
council members, make a decision as a body that we individually will not attend these meetings,
it will be staff, and if we want to invite the legislators to attend a public hearing in the council
chambers we can, but otherwise we will limit our coinlnunication with our legislators as
individuals and not as the Columbia Heights City Council.
Nawrocki stated that he is not saying that he is going to any meeting where this is discussed. He
indicated his intend to try to find out, if our staff is not going to tell him and use whatever means
he can to find out when staff is spending tune paid by city funds. He stated that he has every
right as a councihnember and a citizen to attend to those meetings. Diehm stated that staff
meetings are not open to the public.
Fehst stated that Councilinember Nawrocki has the right as a citizen to contact them. He
indicated he is following Council direction. There are times when. we meet with legislators that
we don't know when we will be called. Fehst stated that his job, as the Charter requires, is
following the direction of the City Council. If an individual council member tries to subvert that
by any activity that is in fact a violation of the City Charter, which he is talking to our city
attorney about, and he would considering investigating Councilmember Nawrocki's actions with
the State Auditor.
Dielun called for the question on the motion that with this particular item with staff and
legislators that we as a Council, with the ability to govern ourselves, will agree not to be there. If
any particular Councilmember violates that motion, should it be passed, that we all be informed.
Nawrocki stated that he wanted it on the record that Council can not tell him...this is another
example of not having discussion. He asked when there would be discussion and asked what the
motion was.
Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Diehm, aye.
Nawrocki questioned what the motion was.
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February 26, 2007
Page 8 of 1 I
Diehm stated that as a council we have made a decision, if this motion passes, that on this
particular issue in meeting with our legislators, that we have directed staff to do, that we as
Council members will not attend those meetings, that they will be strictly between staff and the
legislators. if we chose to have a public meeting with our legislators, we can as a Council set up
a dine to invite them here to the Council Chambers and that we limit all of our individual
communication with the legislators to our views as residents and not as Councilmembers.
Nawrocki stated that as a resident he requests to be advised when these meetings are and stated
his intent exercise his right to participate in those discussions.
Peterson, aye. 4 ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried.
Nawrocki indicated he had not voted yet. Upon vote: Nawrocki, nay.
Peterson: 4ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried.
Activit center
Peterson stated there was a meeting the other night with considerable discussion on an activity
center.
Nawrocki referred to the Columbia Heights activity center feasibility study executive summary
by BKV Group. There are cost estimates for three different ways to build an activity center;
Huset Park partial build out, NEI site partial build out, and NEI full build out. From each of these
they have subtracted $3,900,000 to come up with a lesser cost to build an activity center. That
amount is from other city funds to be used for this activity center in lieu of the purpose the funds
were intended for, such as the $500,000 from the liquor store fund, which we will now have to
borrow for liquor store construction. Nawrocki stated his objection to a presentation that
whichever one of the ways the activity center might be build that the $3,900,000 be shown in the
actual cost because the architect will get his commission on the entire cost.
Williams stated that we have a citizens committee of 36 members and he, as most council
members, have stayed out of it. They are attempting to work this through. If residents are
interested they should attend the next meeting at Murzyn Hall. We should encourage the
committee and should get our citizens to participate. He stated that he has not been involved and
he wants to stay neutral. We want the best for our city. We don't know where we are going with
this yet. We told the committee that we have to be fiscally responsible as we have a lot going on
at this time.
Nawrocki stated that he has attended their meetings. In previous council meetings we were told
to stay away from them, but with the kind of money being discussed we should be part of them.
There are 37 people on the committee and at the last meeting less than one-half of the rnernbers
were there to vote and there were split votes. He stated his support of the School District
proposal to build gyms, as it would benefit Columbia Heights taxpayers because part of the
Fridley taxpayers will share in the cost. If we go beyond the two gyms, it should go to a vote of
the people, as should the extension of the TIF program. He stated that he supposed he would be
told lre cart riot attend those riieeting eitrier.
Peterson stated that the committee brought three proposals forward to get council input if these
proposals should be brought to the open house, and they left with more questians than they got
answered. The Council is leaning toward the lower cost building and instruction to work with
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February 26, ?007
Page 9 of 1 t
school representatives. The School Board representatives were surprised at their lack of
involvement and the Council was surprised that they had a plan of their own. He stated his hope
that they can work together. Peterson stated that everything this Council does is open to
discussion. If everything would go to a resident vote there would be no need for a Council to
snake decisions. We could save the money spent on a council and just send out a weekly
questionnaire submitted to the City Manager and see how that works. Hopefully, citizens realize
that council. members do their homework to make informed decisions and do the best for
community.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Manager
• On April 4`" from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. the Southern Anoka County Consortium will meet with
Congress Keith Ellison at the Fridley Community Center and will include the schools, City of
Fridley and City of Hilltop. Fehst suggested meeting with Fridley officials following this
meeting. Williams stated his agreement. Fehst indicated he would work out the details. He
suggested that this might also be a good time for a presentation by the Anoka County Sherriff on
the forensic lab proposal. They have budgeted this into the capital improvements of the county
and will request an additional $6,000,000 from the Legislature or County taxpayers. Fehst stated
that however slow the results, these services are now provided free from the State.
• On the March 19`h the Library Board would like to meet with Council members and the liquor
store architects would like to make a presentation. It was clear that Council members want to
look at ideas other than the big box approach. Following this, the street program public hearing
will beheld.
Nawrocki
The ink is not dry yet on the work session schedule and it is already being violated. Stated strong
objection to the extended meeting. Public hearings used to be at a regular council meeting.
Diehm stated that Public Wof°ks holds an informational meeting for residents prior to the
hearing. The meeting wocdd probably not last beyond 7:00 p. m., as residents can have their
questions answered at that meeting. Peterson stated that each item could have a time fi-ame or
we could schedule to meet with the Library Board on the, following evening so as nat to rush
then2. Peterson stated that we must be_flexible. Diehm stated that she would not be able to attend,
but that was alright. Fehst stated that staff was not aware there wo2tld riot be a quorum for the
scheduled March S'~' work session. He stated he would speak to the Library Director about
changing the meeting. Nawrocki suggested holding the special meeting at 5:30 p.m. and
discussing the other items on Tuesday evening. Williams stated that it may be difficz~~lt for
citizens to arrive by S: 30 p.m. We usi.tally have a room full of citizens. Fehst stated that there
may also be Planning and Zoning Commission items for the Monday meeting. Diehm indicated
her preference that the architect be at the Monday meeting so she coa~~ld be in attendance.
Questioned if members were to respond individually to the Springsted questionnaire or if the
response would be from the City. Fehst stated that staff has already responded. Diehm indicated
that individ~taal responses ca~~ld be given. Nawrocki requested a copy of the City's responses.
There was discussion at the Suburban Rate Authority meeting regarding Xcel Energy
"butchering" policy on tree trimming. Minnetonka has language in their franchise agreement
regarding tree trimming. Asked when our franchise expires. Fehst stated shortly. We should
check with other communities regarding wording on tree trimming.
For the third time, council meeting agendas should be placed on cable television on Fridays.
Why isn't it? Fehst stated that the person who used to do that is no longer with the City and that
position was not filled. We do the best job with what we have. Getting this information. out is
extremely important and should be done earlier. The agendas are done by Friday afternoon, so
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February 26, 2007
Page 10 of I l
should be on cable on Friday's, for those who do have cable. Peterson. stated that we would have
to hire a part time person to do this. Nawrocki we should look around at the people working for
the city. Diehm suggested that Council member Nawrocki could volunteer one-half hour of his
time to place the agenda on cable. Nawrocki indicated that he could also do a cable program on
"Tell it to a Councilman" to get the rest of the story out on what is happening in this city.
Peterson stated that he does the Mayor's report on Tuesdays, which is limited to one-half hour,
but Council member Nawrocki is welcome to do that.
Report of the City Attorney -none
CITIZENS FORUM
Deb Johnson, 4626 Pierce, stated her confusion on when the scheduled meetings are. Fehst indicated we
could get her the calendar and reiterated the upcoming meetings and topics for discussion. Diehm stated
that we all wanted a set calendar for the year. She explained that on the third Monday of the month we
are trying to shift to an earlier time so members that wish to can attend the Lion's Club meeting.
Jeff Diehm, 5125 St. Moritz, stated that he was watching the public broadcast of this meeting at home
and was disturbed with what he heard. He referred to the teen "we need more discussion". He stated that
discussion is an exchange of ideas between parties, with intent to convey your own message. It is not
right to speak to those no longer willing to listen when discussion is closed. That is an embarrassment.
In a representative form of government, we are to be part of a team, and if a team takes a course of
action, as member I can voice my opinion but do not have the right to circumvent or intentionally
damage the group's decision. The best interest of the team must take precedence. When a vote is taken,
as an elected official, and my opinion was voiced and my point did not prevail, my constituencies know
I did my best; then it is done. He stated his concern that there is no respect for the cut off point to end
discussion. He stated understanding that Council members disagree, but never to the point of sarcasm
and yelling. This meeting is broadcast. The last city election said strongly that the people who were in
position on this city council were reaffirmed by the people of the city and should be respected for that.
He stated concerned that when things do not go one person's way, things deteriorate, and he wants to see
people held accountable for that and would like to see that stop.
COUNCIL CORNER
Kelzenberg
• Carolyn Laine, State Representative, will hold a town meeting on March 3 from 10:00 a.m. to
2:00 p.m.
• Read from the green sheet article regarding Police Chief and Captain Roddy attending a meeting
regarding crime in the northern suburbs. It is good this is being talked about and we are trying to
remedy this.
Williams
• Last Wednesday the 3amaica Chief of Police and speaker at last year's Prayer Breakfast passed
away. He was a close personal friend.
• Appreciated Mr. Diehm's comments. We need to be respectful of each other. Discussion needs
to be two ways, or a third idea that really counts. We are moving the city forward as best we can.
Crime is a big issue. Rather than prosecute criminals, some cities are just pushing them out of
their city. We must deal with crime head on.
• Pray for the health of our citizens and far our city.
Diehm
• We had a major snowfall. Impressed by the way the streets were cleared. Fehst stated that there
was anly orze vehicle that f~egz~iyed towing.
City Council Minutes
Februar}~ 26, ?007
Page 11 of 1 1
• Update -Three Rivers Park demolition phase is complete. Concrete will now be ground up and
recycled for the base of the new road.
• The Empty Bowls fundraiser supper will be next Monday night. Since the work session was
cancelled, we can now support that event.
• Values First values are citizenship and patriotism. Remember our troops and be thankful for the
wonderful county in which we live.
Nawrocki
• Regarding Mr. Diehm's comments, stated he is very embarrassed to be a member of this body
and the way it treats discussion. Understands about going to the voters. Tries to always listen to
the people and tries to discuss their concerns. My quest for information will not cease. I may get
more vociferous about seeking out information. If a member of the Council has trouble getting
information, so do residents. I make no apologies about how vociferous I am.
• Regarding Ms. Johnson's concern about following meeting dates; there have already been three
changes.
• Commended the Public Works Department on plowing. They were out early on Sunday and did a
good job, and again. early this morning. Was in NE Minneapolis this afternoon and saw plowing
that was not done.
• Anoka County Historical Society has put together a photo history to celebrate Anoka County's
1 SOt" Anniversary. They are planning a special program from March 1 to 21.
• Ali libraries received private money for free passes for you and up to three guests to visit 16
different museums. Each pass is valid for one week at the current museum being featured.
Peterson
• Proud to be a member of this Council. Proud of our accomplishments. My colleagues are doing
the best job possible. Staff does the best job possible. Proud of Public Works and the job they do.
• If you have questions on meeting dates or times or if you want to volunteer to put the agenda on
cable you can call the Deputy City Clerk.
• April 29 will be the All Class Reunion at the High School.
• Annual Prayer Breakfast will be May 9. Our speaker from last year passed away, and that was
probably his last speaking engagement. He left a deep impression on us and I will travel. with
Councilmember Williams to Jamaica for the funeral of Ivan Brown.
• Thank our service men and women. They are doing a fantastic job. Pray that the conflict comes
to an end as rapidly as it can.
• Get out and meet your neighbors. It is imperative to understand one another. There is a program
on diversity on our cable channel. Celebrate our diversity.
• Don't take ourselves to seriously, do a random act of kindness and do your best to enjoy life.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Peterson adjourned the meeting at 9:OS p.in.
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Patricia Muscovitz, CMC d
Deputy City Clerk/Council Secretary